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SB 1901

Professions and Occupations - As introduced, specifies in various provisions that for a person to be eligible for a particular license, certificate, permit, or authorization, the person must be a citizen of the United States or a qualified alien. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 7; Title 20; Title 23; Title 33; Title 37; Title 39; Title 42; Title 43; Title 44; Title 45; Title 46; Title 47; Title 49; Title 52; Title 53; Title 55; Title 56; Title 57; Title 59; Title 60; Title 62; Title 63; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69; Title 70; Title 71 and Chapter 463 of the Public Acts of 2025.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Bailey

Tennessee law would require professional licensees to be U.S. citizens or federally-authorized aliens, affecting 31 occupational categories statewide.

Placed on Senate Commerce and Labor Committee calendar for 4/7/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 1901

Legislative bill overview

SB 1901 amends Tennessee law across 31 different titles of the state code to add citizenship or "qualified alien" requirements for obtaining professional licenses, certificates, permits, and authorizations. The bill creates a uniform eligibility standard that restricts licensure to U.S. citizens or individuals with federal immigration authorization.

Why is this important

Professional licensing affects millions of workers across fields like healthcare, construction, cosmetology, engineering, and law. These restrictions would determine who can legally work in regulated professions in Tennessee and could significantly impact the state's workforce in industries facing labor shortages. The broad scope—spanning 31 titles—means the policy touches nearly every regulated profession in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Labor market impact: Industries with significant immigrant worker populations (agriculture, construction, healthcare) may face staffing challenges and economic disruption if unable to license foreign-trained workers legally present in the country
  • "Qualified alien" definition: The bill references federal immigration categories without clearly defining which immigration statuses qualify, creating potential implementation uncertainty and legal challenges
  • Reciprocity and interstate commerce: Restrictions could complicate portability of licenses for professionals moving to Tennessee and may conflict with federal immigration enforcement priorities or interstate licensing agreements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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